Episode 81: A Blessing Beyond Measure

(20 minutes)

Be sure to check out the show notes below for links to resources mentioned in this episode.

Episode Archive on Together in This (1-78)
Episode Archive on Dementia Sherpa (79-ongoing) 

The Alzheimer’s Podcast:
Navigating Rough Terrain with the Dementia Sherpa

Welcome to Episode 81 of The Alzheimer’s Podcast, where we’re all about bringing The Good Stuff (that’s respect, kindness, love, empathy, and compassion) for people living with dementia, their families, and the professionals who support them. I’m Christy Turner, AKA The Dementia Sherpa. I’ve enjoyed the privilege of working with over 1,500 people living with dementia and their families so far, including multiple experiences in my own family.

In the course of my career, I’ve transformed from total trainwreck on my first day as a professional, to local go-to expert, speaker, trainer, and consultant. And if I can go from scared spitless to confident care partner, you can too!

In This Episode

One of the best things about the work I do is getting to hear people’s stories. I love hearing the life lessons and insights, moments of grace, and of course the funny. This week, I’m sharing part two of my conversation with Bonnie Lais, a member of the the Dementia Sherpa tribe who generously agreed to share her story about care partnering with her husband Don.

In this episode of Navigating Rough Terrain with the Dementia Sherpa, Bonnie drops yet more golden nuggets as she reveals the key decision she made that changed everything; offers up a handy acronym to get you through tough spots; shares their hospice experience; and gives great examples of creativity in care solutions. 

Episode 81 Show Notes

Further information and resources related to topics mentioned in this episode:

• Articles:
  • Behavior=Communication. Learn to Speak Alzheimer’s, Fast! (“behaviors” in dementia)
  • We Know Better (FDA double black box warning against the use of antipsychotics in people living with dementia.) 
  • Dementia + Communication: 7 Ways to Knock It out of the Park (communicating in a way your person understands)
  • Is A Good Death Possible? (hospice care)

• Audio:
  • Positive Approaches (1 hour audio) (importance of our approach)

• Resources:
  • ID bracelets (“wandering”) 
  • Belong to a community of people who understand what you’re going through. Join the private Dementia Sherpa Facebook group Tips, Tricks, and Tools for Dementia Care Partners and/or find a support group near you.
  • Join the Dementia Sherpa tribe & grab your complimentary Communication Tips for Dementia Care Partners download bundle.
  • Episode 81: Transcript
  • Subscribe to The Alzheimer’s Podcast

Dementia can last for up to 20 years or more. That's a long time to fly by the seat of your pants, struggling through trial and error! If you're ready to
step into the life you and your loved one deserve, schedule your complimentary Dementia Caregiver Strategy call with Christy.

Christy Turner is a speaker and consultant, host of The Alzheimer’s Podcast, founder of DementiaSherpa.com, and creator of the online programs Memory Care at Home and The Dementia Sherpa’s Guide to Moving into Memory Care. She’s enjoyed the privilege of working with over 1,500 people living with dementia and their families so far, including multiple experiences in her own family.